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I've learned.....Linky Party

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

I thought it would be fun to end the school year with everyone sharing what you have learned this year.I got my idea from a product listed on TpT called "Live & Learn" Life Lessons Class Activity Anytime or End of the Year by Tracee Orman. I did this activity with my elementary special education class and was suprised at some of their answers. They ranged from, "If an old man tries to do a wheelie, he will crack his back." to "Don't mess with the teachers, they will get you in the end." We enjoyed it and so I thought I would see what all of you have learned. The rules are simple. Link up and list as many things as you wish to share that you have learned this year or over the years teaching. They can be funny, serious, and everything in between. Have fun!

I've learned.....
1. When you send a 1st grader to the bathroom with some baby wipes to clean herself, you must include the directions, "Throw the wipes in the trash when you are finished." or she will bring you the used wipes when she has finished.

2. Never assume a child cannot learn. Assume that they can and set high expectations. They may not meet those expectations, but they will learn more than you ever imagined possible.

3. Everyday is a new day. It doesn't matter what happened yesterday or the day before. Focus on today and let the kids know that everyday is a new day. That doesn't mean there are not consequences for their behavior. There are always consequences in life. Sometimes good and sometimes not. But, everyday is a fresh start.

4. Although the weather is beautiful in August and April/May and we love to wear cute sandles, they are not made for running. The first few weeks of school and the last few weeks of school is super tough on students with special needs. Every year, I end up running through the halls wearing sandles and almost breaking my neck to head off a student on the loose.

5. Hugs are priceless and it never ceases to amaze me at how many children do not receive hugs on a regular basis.

6. Kids who trust you and know that you love them will do almost anything you ask them to do.

7. Kids need a break too. Sometimes what we think is going to be fun for the kids is really stressful on them and they can't handle it. They need to be able to take a break from the activity.

8. Kids are unpredictable and their words are priceless. Keep a journal. It will remind you on bad days why you are a teacher.

9. The kids who are the hardest to love are usually the ones that need the most love.

10. The most important thing I've learned teaching isI cannot change anyone else. If I don't like how my class is behaving, the only person I can change is myself. I have to figure out how to change my behavior to get the effects I want. The children's behavior is usually a reaction to what they are around. As a teacher, we don't like to admit that. The hardest class I ever had had multiple behavior problems on top of huge learning deficits. After much crying and a little yelling, I finally realized that if I wanted anything to change, I had to change me. And, it worked. I changed my behavior. I changed the way I reacted to inappropriate behaviors and how I reacted to appropriate behaviors. Pretty soon, the class changed and we were all much happier (and better behaved!)

5 comments

I have learned that it is ok to let go of some things and not work hours and hours each weeknight and weekend. I still get done what I have to, and am much happier and less stressed. It is even enjoyable too! Thank you for helping me to do this!!!

Thanks, Karla! I'm so glad you enjoyed the activity. I do it at least twice a year now and even leave the container out so they can write something anytime throughout the year. I linked back to my original post, but updated it for the end of the year.

This is my first linky party - so cool! I'll have to remember this and think of some "linky parties" to host this summer and next year. Thanks, again!